When Shakespeare used that
simple phrase, "The worm has turned," he knew his audience would
understand its meaning and origin. A widely used expression even today,
it indicates a reversal of fortune, but few who use it know why.

"Worm" is a common term for
'dragon.' In fairy tale terms, the flying dragon spewing fire would
ravage fields and villages. To be in the dragon's path resulted in
inescapable destruction. What a relief if it changed directions.

The phrase persists through
time and changing cultures because it describes a more ancient and
universal force: the annual cycle of the sun. As time cycles through
the seasons, the Dragon circles through the Zodiac. After summer
solstice, when long summer days dry the earth, the Dragon ravages the
land bringing drought and pestilence. As the seasons change, the worm
turns.